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New England Patriots: Ranking Possible AFC Playoff Opponents

By Nick Ziegler

Dec 24, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) celebrates with wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) after scoring a touchdown against the New York Jets in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 24, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) celebrates with wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) after scoring a touchdown against the New York Jets in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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New England Patriots
Dec 24, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills free safety Corey Graham (20) dives to try and tackle Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (23) during the second half at New Era Field. The Dolphins beat the Bills 34-31 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /

3.) Miami Dolphins

As the trend continues, the Dolphins are the third team in the AFC that doesn’t have an ideal quarterback situation. In a win against the Arizona Cardinals, the Dolphins lost their quarterback Ryan Tannehill to a knee sprain. Tannehill’s status is still up in the air, but they have been getting some good play from his backup Matt Moore.

In his first start of the season against the New York Jets, Moore was able to total four passing touchdowns in an easy win. Against the Buffalo Bills last week, Moore played pretty well once again, as he totaled two passing touchdowns and 233 passing yards.

The Dolphins have a pretty good team surrounding Moore, as their defense is capable of generating pressure on the quarterback. Also, the Dolphins have shown the ability to run the ball extremely well. Jay Ajayi has had three 200-yards rushing games this season, and that will frighten any defense coordinator.

Unlike some of the other playoff teams in the AFC, the Dolphins should have some confidence in Moore heading into the playoffs. With two road wins against division opponents, Moore has shown the ability to win as the starting quarterback. Moore also doesn’t lack any confidence, as the Dolphins have been letting him talk shots down the field rather than playing conservative.

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